The start of the new year is a good time to assess your home’s HVAC system. Here are six signs that your home needs a new furnace.
The Age of Your Furnace
Not sure how old your furnace is? You can find the age of your heating system by looking at the label attached directly onto the unit.
The average lifespan of a furnace is 15-20 years, with systems with proper preventative maintenance lasting longer. If your furnace is nearing the top end of that lifespan, it’s a good time to consider a replacement.
Increased Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a spike in your heating bills that you can’t explain, it could be because your furnace is working harder than usual to heat your home. As furnaces age, they become less efficient and consume more energy to produce the same level of warmth.
If you’re regularly turning up the thermostat but still feeling cold, or if your energy bills are climbing, it might be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model.
Frequent Short Cycling
If your furnace is turning on and off repeatedly in short bursts, this is known as “short cycling.” This can be caused by several issues, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged filters, or an overheating system.
While short cycling can sometimes be fixed, if it’s a recurring problem, it could be a sign that your furnace is reaching the end of its life.
The Furnace is Constantly Running
If your furnace is running nonstop to keep the house warm, it’s likely struggling to maintain the desired temperature. A furnace that can’t keep up with the heating demand of your home might be overworking itself, which is inefficient and could result in a complete breakdown.
This problem is especially common in older systems, which may no longer have the capacity to heat your home as efficiently as they once did.
Strange Noises
If your furnace is making loud banging, rattling, or screeching noises, it could be a sign of a serious problem. Odd noises can indicate a malfunctioning component or something that’s broken within the furnace.
Frequent Repairs
If you’ve found yourself calling your HVAC technician more often for repairs, that’s a major red flag. While preventative maintenance is important, a furnace that needs constant attention could be nearing the end of its lifespan.
Frequent breakdowns and repairs are costly and disruptive, and if your furnace has had several major repairs in the last few years, it’s time to start budgeting for a new one.
Get a New Furnace with Russo Bros. & Co.
As the new year begins, take a moment to assess the health of your furnace and your New Year’s resolutions. While a new furnace requires an upfront investment, it can save you money on repairs, reduce your energy bills, and improve the comfort and air quality of your home.
At Russo Bros. & Co., our team of experts is ready to solve your new-year furnace needs. Contact us today and let us help you make the right choice for your Northern New Jersey home.
